Restore Your Buick’s Performance and Reliability
Is your 2009-2011 Buick Lucerne experiencing frustrating issues like stalling, rough idling, a persistent Check Engine Light, or even a complete no-start condition? The Engine Control Module (ECM), the vehicle’s central computer, is often the culprit. When it fails, it can disrupt everything from fuel delivery to transmission shifting, leaving you stranded and facing a costly dealership repair. This replacement ECM is the dependable, straightforward solution to get your car running like new again.
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing computer can mimic a dozen other problems. Don’t waste time and money chasing phantom sensor or wiring issues. This module is meticulously tested and programmed with the latest official GM software updates specifically for your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This isn’t a generic, one-size-fits-all part; it’s a precisely configured component ready for installation right out of the box, saving you the hassle and expense of a trip to the dealer for programming.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2010 Lucerne 4.6L with an intermittent stalling problem that was driving them crazy. It would die at stoplights, but only when the engine was fully warmed up on hot days. No consistent trouble codes were stored, just a few random communication faults. After verifying the fuel pressure and checking for vacuum leaks, my experience pointed towards a heat-sensitive failure inside the ECM. We swapped in one of our pre-programmed modules, and the customer reported back a week later that the car hadn’t stalled once. It’s a classic symptom that a scan tool won’t always catch.
Common Signs of a Failing ECM
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0602, or P0606 (Internal Control Module Processor Error).
- ✔ Vehicle cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel economy.
- ✔ Engine stalling, stumbling, or misfiring for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Transmission shifting issues or getting stuck in one gear.
- ✔ Loss of communication with the scan tool or other modules (U-codes).
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the ECM on your Lucerne is a manageable job for a DIYer. The module is conveniently located at the lower part of the air cleaner box.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the ECM: Open the hood and find the air cleaner assembly. The ECM is situated at the bottom of the box. You will need to remove the air filter housing to access it.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old ECM. These connectors have locking tabs that must be released before they can be pulled out. Avoid forcing them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed ECM into place. Reconnect the electrical connectors, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Final Steps: Reinstall the air cleaner assembly and reconnect the negative battery terminal. You may need to perform a simple security relearn procedure (often called a ‘key-on/key-off’ cycle), which can be found in your owner’s manual or online. This allows the new ECM to recognize your vehicle’s anti-theft system.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your Vehicle
This ECM, part number 12628993, is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. It is interchangeable with service numbers 12636659, 12639300, 1263605, 12628911, 12625453, 12622175, 12630464, and 12678512. Please verify your vehicle is on the list below:
LUCERNE 2009-2011 (4.6L, located at lower part of air cleaner box)
Cadillac:
CTS 2009 (6.2L, RH front engine compartment)
DTS 2009-2011
SRX 2009 (4.6L, LH engine compartment)
STS 2009-2010 (4.4L or 4.6L, LH frame rail)
XLR 2009 (RH front engine compartment)
Chevrolet:
COLORADO 2009-2012 (2.9L or 3.7L, RH firewall)
CORVETTE 2009 (ZR1, RH engine compartment)
TRAILBLAZER 2009 (6.0L, LH engine)
GMC:
CANYON 2009-2012 (2.9L or 3.7L, RH firewall)
ENVOY 2009 (5.3L, LH engine)
Hummer:
HUMMER H3 2009-2010 (3.7L, RH firewall)
Saab:
SAAB 9-7X 2009 (LH engine)
Why do you need my VIN?
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is essential for us to program the ECM with the exact software and calibrations your Buick Lucerne requires. This ensures perfect compatibility with your engine, transmission, and options, making the installation process seamless and preventing future performance issues.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
Yes, because we program it to your VIN before shipping, it is a true plug-and-play solution. In most cases, the only additional step is a simple security relearn procedure that takes a few minutes and requires no special tools. This is far easier and less expensive than buying an unprogrammed module and taking it to a dealer.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This 2009-2011 Lucerne ECM is the definitive solution for problems directly caused by a faulty computer, such as internal processor failure codes (P060x series), no-start conditions where fuel and spark are missing, and certain communication errors. While it can’t fix a bad sensor or a wiring problem, it resolves the core electronic brain-related issues.
Do I need to send my old ECM back?
No core charge or return is required for this part. You can keep your old module or recycle it locally.